FAQ

Is Active Iron suitable during pregnancy?

Yes, Active Iron is suitable during pregnancy. Iron needs are increased during pregnancy because your body uses iron to make extra blood to transport oxygen for the mother and her baby during this time.

Is Active Iron suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, Active Iron is suitable for vegetarians. Vegetarians may benefit from taking an iron supplement if they cannot meet their iron requirements through diet alone. Although a vegetarian diet will be high in iron rich foods, these plant-based sources of iron are poorly absorbed. This may be coupled with other potential absorption obstacles such as phytates in whole grains and legumes or tannins in tea and coffee. There is the equivalent of 17 cups of spinach in one capsule of Active Iron, that is a lot of iron to get from your diet alone.

Is Active Iron suitable for Vegans?

Active Iron isn’t suitable for Vegans as it contains whey protein.

What is the function of iron in our bodies?

Energy production

Cognitive function

Support the immune system

Oxygen transport

Formation of haemoglobin and red blood cells

Why is Active Iron packed in aluminium foil?

The aluminium foil ensures that the last capsule is as fresh as the first. The packaging protects the encapsulated iron.

Why is Active Iron better than other products on the market?

Active Iron is better absorbed and better tolerated than other iron products.

Active iron targets the body’s “Iron absorber” the DMT-1 and is clinically proven to give better iron absorption and to work in tune with your body’s needs. Active iron’s advanced protein formulation is non-irritating to the stomach and does not cause inflammation preventing unwanted side effects associated with other Iron products such as stomach pain, cramp, sickness, constipation and flatulence.

Can I get iron from my food?

There are two types of iron, heme and non heme. Non heme iron is found in plants, nuts and legumes etc. This is absorbed at a much lower rate than heme iron, which is found in animal products such as meat.

Even if you are making a conscious effort to ingest more heme iron, other daily habits like drinking coffee after your meals can reduce iron absorption and therefore leave you low in iron.

Food supplements are not a substitute for a varied diet and healthy lifestyle.

What are iron rich foods?

Iron rich foods include:

Red meat

Pork

Poultry

Beans

Dark green, leafy vegetables

Dried fruits

Fortified cereals, breads and pastas.

But the dose is only 25mg in Active Iron, should I take a higher dose product?

No, 25mg is equivalent to 138% of the Nutrient Reference Value. Research data shows that Active Iron was more than 2 times better absorbed than gold standard ferrous sulfate.

Standard Iron products dissolve in the stomach, causing reactive oxygen species production in gut cells leading to inflammation and low absorption. Side effects include nausea, burping, cramping, constipation and diarrhoea. This is why we recommend our low dose but highly absorbed iron capsule over traditional iron.

What evidence or research supports your claims about Active Iron?

Our research is carried out in Trinity College, Dublin. Active Iron has been researched against the leading products in the market.

Can Active Iron be taken while breastfeeding?

Yes, Active Iron is safe to take during breastfeeding as supported by the information below.

The UK Drugs in Lactation Advisory Service states that iron supplementation can be used in during breastfeeding.[1] There is no risk to the breastfed infant as very little iron passes into the breast milk. [1]

The specialist lactation source, Medications and Mothers’ Milk (2017) and The American Food and Nutrition Board also state that the amount of iron that passes into the breast milk is very low. [2]. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regard iron supplementation as safe in breastfeeding women. If a breastfed infant shows signs of unusual diarrhea and/or constipation and the mother is taking iron supplementation, this should be discussed with a Doctor or pharmacist.

NOTE: The information above relates to full term and healthy infants. If the infant is preterm, of low birth weight or has other medical problems, then the advice of a Doctor should be sought.

Active Iron’s advanced protein formulation is clinically proven to give better absorption of iron sulfate and is gentle enough to take on an empty stomach. This unique formulation is made with natural whey protein and contains acetic acid (vinegar), which help to protect the digestive system from unwanted side effects. Active Iron targets your body’s normal “iron absorber”, called the DMT-1, improving iron absorption and working in tune with your body’s needs.

How do I take Active Iron?

Adults, pregnant women, the elderly and children over 12 years: One capsule should be taken daily. Do not exceed the daily dose without consulting your doctor or pharmacist. Remember, food supplements are not a substitute for a varied diet and a healthy lifestyle. Active Iron is gentle enough to be taken on an empty stomach. It can be taken with water or fruit juice. You should avoid taking Active Iron with milk, caffeine or antacids (indigestion remedies). Some people may need to take regular iron supplements in addition to a healthy diet to maintain normal iron levels. As with all supplements, you should discuss with your health professional before using if you are under medical supervision, taking other medicines or if you suffer from food allergies.